Nominating papers filed by a lawyer who wants to run for Rock Island County States Attorney are being challenged by the head of the local Democratic party, because the lawyer lives in Iowa.
Jack Schwartz, of Davenport, filed his petitions to run as a Democrat against incumbent States Attorney John McGehee in the March primary.
Party Chair Doug House filed an objection on December 7 against Schwartz, citing his Iowa residency.
"We feel Jack Schwartz is asking residents of Rock Island County to do something he can not do for himself. Which is vote. We don't feel he's a qualified candidate," House told WQAD.
But Schwartz says he doesn't have to live in Illinois, but be licensed as an attorney in the state and be a United States citizen.
The State Board of Elections tells WQAD, that is true.
"There is not a requirement for states attorneys to be a resident of Illinois," said Brent Davis with the State Board of Elections in Springfield.
The Rock Island County Electoral Board will convene on Monday at 10 am to hear House's objection.